California understands the importance of each individual exercising their right to vote. So much so, that there is a law that requires employers to give employees up to two hours off work to vote if they are unable to do so during non-work hours without loss of pay. If you think you will need time off to vote, you need to notify your employer in advance (preferably two working days in advance) but you can make other arrangements with your employer.
Your time off for voting can be mandated by the employer to be at the beginning or end of your regular work day, whichever allows the most time for you to vote and the least amount of time off of work. While you can take as much time as you may need (think waiting in line at the polls to cast your vote), your employer is only required to provide two hours of paid time off.
If you are an employer and gave time off to your employees, yet didn’t know you had to pay them up to two hours, make sure you do to avoid a violation of the California Labor Laws. Additionally, if you have not already, employers should post a notice to employees that explains an employee’s right to take time off for voting. This notice must be posted at least 10 days before a statewide election, which means that the notice should be posted in the workplace or in a location that is visible to all employees as they enter or exit the work premise, no later than October 26. A sample notice can be found here. If your business was unaware of this mandate, contact the Employer Lawyers at Chauvel & Glatt to learn more about these unique laws that you are required to follow as a California employer.
This material in this article, provided by Chauvel & Glatt, is designed to provide informative and current information as of the date of the post. It should not be considered, nor is it intended to constitute legal advice. For information on your particular circumstances, please contact Chauvel & Glatt at 650-573-9500 for legal assistance near you. (Photo Credit: depositphotos.com)
